essay
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essay
A sophisticated, often subjectively colored written treatment of a scientific, cultural, or social topic. In it, the author develops personal thoughts and reflections in a refined linguistic form.
Für den Deutschunterricht musste sie einen Essay über den Begriff der Freiheit schreiben.
For German class, she had to write an essay about the concept of freedom.
In German, 'der Essay' refers to a sophisticated, often literary or philosophical type of text with a personal touch. It is not the same as the English word 'essay', which can also mean a simple school paper.
Thomas Mann ist berühmt für seine politischen Essays.
Thomas Mann is famous for his political essays.
The word 'Essay' belongs in an academic, literary, or journalistic context. It signals a higher stylistic level than a simple report or summary.
In der Sonntagszeitung erschien ein interessanter Essay zur Digitalisierung.
An interesting essay on digitalization appeared in the Sunday newspaper.
Common verbs used with 'Essay' are 'einen Essay schreiben' (to write an essay) or 'verfassen' (to compose/write). The topic is connected with the preposition 'über' (+ accusative).
Die Studentin verfasst einen Essay über moderne Architektur.
The student is writing an essay about modern architecture.
article
Artikel and Essay can both be published texts about social issues. An Artikel primarily provides information about the topic. An Essay, by contrast, develops personal thoughts and reflections in a sophisticated linguistic form.
Die Zeitschrift veröffentlicht einen persönlichen Essay über das Leben in Großstädten.
The magazine is publishing a personal essay about life in big cities.
Die Zeitschrift veröffentlicht einen informativen Artikel über das Leben in Großstädten.
The magazine is publishing an informative article about life in big cities.
